[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 74 (Wednesday, May 11, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E674]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR SAFE DISPOSAL OF PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES

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                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 11, 2016

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, our nation is faced with unprecedented 
levels of prescription drug abuse. In 2012, nearly 260 million 
prescriptions were written for prescription painkillers--roughly one 
prescription for every adult in the country. While we see prescriptions 
for pain management on the rise, we don't have an easy or effective way 
of disposing of leftover, unused medication.
  A 2014 study found that over 65 percent of participants kept some or 
all prescription opioids even if they were no longer taking the 
medication, while only about 6 percent of patients reported safely 
disposing of their prescription opioids. Families are left with 
powerful narcotics after their loved ones have passed away. Parents 
struggle over what to do with leftover pain medications in their home.
  Without better options, when trying to dispose of medications, people 
often turn to flushing them down the toilet, putting our water at risk. 
One study by EPA scientists found that half of the 50 large-size 
wastewater treatment plants nationwide tested positive for at least 25 
drugs.
  When it becomes more difficult to dispose of a medication than to get 
it prescribed in the first place, we know something is wrong.
  Today I am introducing the Safe Drug Disposal Tax Credit Act. This 
legislation would offer qualified entities a tax credit for starting or 
maintaining drug disposal and take back programs.
  Existing take back programs are typically run by law enforcement 
agencies. While the aim of these programs is admirable, they are not 
easily accessible to most members of the public, or are only available 
on specially designated dates. Locating safe drug disposal and take 
back programs at pharmacies and other health care organizations will 
increase access to safe medication disposal. This tax credit would help 
offset some of the expenses of establishing and maintaining a 
sustainable program.

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